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Postdoctoral Research Associate/Fellow - Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences

Employer
UNIVERSITY OF EXETER
Location
Exeter, Devon (GB)
Closing date
13 Nov 2019

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U64455 Postdoctoral Research Associate/Fellow 

College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences

Living Systems Institute

This full-time post is available immediately on a fixed term basis for up to 36 months from the start date to support the work of Professor Frank Vollmer. 

You will develop QUANTUM NANO-SENSORS for analysis of SINGLE-MOLECULES. You will integrate advanced quantum optical measurement technologies with single-molecule sensors pioneered in Prof Vollmer’s laboratory to lead a paradigm shift in biomolecular detection and analysis.

The quantum optical correlation based integrated sensing system will be one of a kind as this bring together three strong streams of photonics which will drive the research in photonics further i.e., biophotonics, nanophotonics and quantum optics.  

You will be part of a cutting-edge research programme that aims to achieve breakthroughs in how we detect, analyse, and manipulate molecules at the ultimate single-molecule level. The programme will develop novel quantum sensing capabilities which will be at the forefront of developments showing that the technique holds the key to the next generation of enabling analytical and healthcare technologies on sensor chips. 

Prof Vollmer’s laboratory is pioneering optical sensors and spectrometers to visualise and detect processes at the micro- and nanoscale.  

Project details: What we are looking for…

You will:

  • have experience with the use of correlated single-photon sources and optical measurement techniques in quantum optics
  • are passionate about applying quantum optics and nonlinear optics for biosensing and single-molecule studies
  • have experience with a variety of laser-based measurement techniques including interferometry and metrology
  • are excited about working as part of a multi-disciplinary team composed of Physicists, engineers, and biologists

You will work at the newly established Living Systems Institute which provides state-of-the-art research facilities for realising one of the first quantum optical approaches to study the energetics and dynamics of biomolecular machines.

Reference
Subramanian S, Wu H-Y, Constant T, Xavier J, Vollmer F.(2018) Label-Free Optical Single-Molecule Micro- and Nanosensors, AdvMater, DOI:10.1002/adma.201801246. 

Requirements for the role
Extensive experience with quantum optics and integrated quantum emitters such as nitrogen vacancy centres, measurements with correlated single-photon sources, and non-linear optics is required. Familiarity with interferometry, metrology, and optical precision measurements is desirable.

Duties are to undertake research and fulfil other main duties and accountabilities associated with the position.  You will be able to present information on research progress and outcomes, communicate complex information, orally, in writing and electronically and prepare proposals and applications to external bodies. 

Applicants will:

  • possess a PhD (or nearly completion) in Physics, Engineering or a related discipline
  • be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within established research programmes
  • able to develop research programmes and methodologies
  • be able to work collaboratively, supervise the work of others and act as team leader as required 
  • (at PDRF) be a nationally recognised authority in chemistry, surface chemistry, molecular machines, molecular electronics, or single-molecules  

Appointed will be at Postdoctoral Research Associate/Fellow (Grade E or F) depending on the skills and experience you can bring to the role. You should demonstrate your achievement against the relevant criteria in the accompanying Job Description and Person Specification, which will be used to make an appointment at an appropriate level. 

The University of Exeter  
We are a member of the prestigious Russell Group of research-intensive universities and in the top 150 universities in the world (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2019). We combine world-class teaching with world-class research, achieving a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework Award 2017. 

With over 22,000 students and 5,500 staff from 180 different countries we offer a diverse and engaging environment in which to work. We are an equal opportunity employer, a Disability Confident employer and an Athena Swan accredited institution. Whilst all applicants will be judged on merit alone, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented in the workforce.  
 
Benefits 

We offer some fantastic benefits including:

  • 41 days leave
  • options for flexible working 
  • sector leading policies around maternity, adoption and shared parental leave 
  • stunning campus environments in the beautiful South West of England

Further information
Please contact Professor Frank Vollmer F.Vollmer@exeter.ac.uk or (01392) 724771.  

This role may be subject to additional background screening.

From £30,046 - £34,804 on Grade E (PDRA) or £35,845 - £40,322 on Grade F (PDRF) depending on level of appointment, based on qualifications and experience.  

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